• Review: Classic Action Devilish

    by
    ecchiSKETCH
    Published on 09-04-2011 03:46 PM
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    Classic Action Devilish

    Developer: Starfish
    Publisher: UFO
    Platform: Nintendo DS
    Genre: Breakout Clone
    Rating: Teen
    Release Date: May 9th, 2007

    Remember that generic game where you have to destroy rows of static blocks by bouncing a ball off a bar at the bottom of the screen? It appears sporadically on computers as a free built in game, and more recently as "Play to Befriend a Pokémon!" on the Pokémon website as part of the Eeveelution Global Link promotion.

    Presentation
    Classic Action Devilish isn't a pretentious game in any way. Nowhere on the packaging or in the game itself does it say that Devilish is trying to define, diverge, or evolve the old Atari classic. However by including the words "Classic Action" and the obvious parallels in gameplay, Devilish is paying homage to a timeless game that has lasted for over 35 years. It adds to Breakout by adding a fantasy element and the questionable injection of a story. You are trying to protect your kingdom from destruction at the hands of Satan. Yes, this is one of the rare games that actually says "Satan" instead of using a cheap synonym that tries to sound scary.

    Graphics
    Graphically speaking, this game has an RPG feel to it. The graphics in this game are very similar to the first three Ys games. Right down to the fantasy backgrounds and monsters, Devilish could easily be a mini-game included in one of the many Ys remakes that have been released in the recent years. It keeps the "Classic Action" mantra intact by successfully being fashionably blocky. Outside of gameplay, Devilish has nice cut scene images that compliment the throwback graphics. These images aren't on par with newer games, but look as if they are reworkings of SNES game images.

    Sound
    Not only are the graphics similar to the old Ys games, the sound is as well. While not quite as clean or heroic as Ys, Devilish definitely has an iconic feel to it with its epic (dictionary "epic" not modern slang "epic") soundtrack and classic sound effects reminiscent of old consoles. Devilish's sound fits perfectly with the graphics, and a person playing this could easily feel as if they really are saving the world just by listening to the background music.

    Gameplay
    At its core Classic Action Devilish is a well made Breakout clone, but it's much more than just chipping away at a wall. Unlike most other Breakout clones, you actually travel through an area instead of staying in one spot. Devilish has five levels with most levels consisting of three chapters. On the top screen you have various static and mobile obstructions in the form of towers of skulls or monsters such as giant mosquitoes that you must hit with a ball to destroy. There are also boss battles every few levels with bosses being destroyed the same as regular monsters. The ball has two attributes, speed and power, that effect how fast you can destroy a target. You can also collect items that are dropped by enemies that can either help or hurt you. If you let the ball drop without catching it or do not clear the level within the designated time limit, the game is over. On the bottom screen you have two bars which you use to ricochet the ball in whichever direction you wish. The top bar is completely mobile, can move between the top and bottom screens, and is able to change its angle, in 45 degree increments, a full 360 degrees. The bottom bar stays on the bottom screen and can only move from side to side. It can be tricky at first, but once you get used to both bars you can really enjoy acrobatic saves and unique angles to build up power and speed.

    Lasting Appeal
    Unfortunately there isn't much to do after completing the fifth and final level other than replaying levels to get a higher score or a better time. This is a bit of a shame, but what else is there to do in Breakout? In this sense, the game is much like other Breakout clones by being bound to its limits.

    Conclusion
    Classic Action Devilish is a refreshing spin on an old game that has been pushed to the side but never forgotten. In an age with plot twists and lifelike graphics, it's nice to revisit a gaming legend with nothing to offer other than gameplay that is both addictive and iconic. Reminiscent of a simpler time in gaming as well as in society, Classic Action Devilish is perfect game to relax with and enjoy.

    Score:
    8.5/10

  • Review Scale

    Score 10- Flawless Victory: A score not handed out to every game. Games earning this rare score sit at the very pinnacle of excellence. These games act as the examples for which all others should be measured with. They are instant classics from the beginning. These games not only deliver what was expected of it, but also exceed the player’s expectations. The game’s features are innovative and original. No game is without its absolute flaws, but the finished product you bring home surpasses the anticipation the game has formed. A day one buy is a must. The game you hold in your hands with this score is a video game jackpot.

    Score 9 - 9.5- Outstanding: Games earning scores such as these absolutely must be played. Games that achieve this high ranking do so because they define the genres that they are in. Flaws are few and barely noticeable. Features seen in the game have been renovated to provide something new and fresh. The story, gameplay, graphics, and lasting appeal are all fantastic and is reason enough to bring the game home and to enjoy with family and friends. Every penny you spend on the game is so worth it.

    Score 8 - 8.5- Great: Any flaw the game may possess is overshadowed by its fun factor. These games would be great for gamers to play. These great games appeal to gamers more and more outside its normal player base because of what it brings to the table.

    Score 7 - 7.5- Good: Flaws do exist in these games, but the positive features of the game can counterbalance the flaws. Additionally, players who are predisposed to liking a game of a particular series or genre with this score should enjoy the game. These are in no way bad games, and much fun can be had with them. An overall good game is worth taking a look at, whether you are willing to buy the game or rent it first. That or you can also wait for the game to reach a good price.

    Score 6 - 6.5- Decent: Games falling into this category may suffer from numerous flaws (for example, graphics or gameplay), but are still worth playing. Granted, the player should be aware that a game with these scores may not guarantee them full satisfaction.

    Score 5 - 5.5- Average: An average game is one in which a game’s features are neither good nor completely terrible. Instead, the finished product is manageable. Little has been done to hold the player’s interest. If anything, rent this game before you consider buying it so that you can at least get a feel for the game’s overall experience.

    Score 4 - 4.5- Poor: Games falling into this category may only keep gamers entertained for a short while. While the game may seem enjoyable for moments at a time, it can quickly grow old and may never be revisited again. The game’s overall function is lacking in quality and may not hold the player’s attention for long. The game leaves little or nothing else to return back to.

    Score 3 - 3.5- Bad: If any positive qualities about a game in this category exist, it is not enough to redeem the game for its shortcomings. Sure you may find yourself playing it, but for how long? You will wind up not giving the game a second glance.

    Score 2 - 2.5- Horrible: Games such as these may not be totally unplayable, they nearly are. Additionally, they may lack, or greatly suffer in, the fundamental functionality of the software as a whole. The game simply does not come close to meeting industry standards at the time of its release.

    Score 1 - 1.5- Appalling: Gamers should avoid this game at all costs. The game was clearly not ready to make its way to store shelves in its status. Save your money and find something else. See it in the bargain bin? No! Stay away! Keep moving and look for something else.